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Show Nettie, Page 33 as the big scout was led off by the young girl. A rather disconcerted Mama and Pap shook hands with the Colonel while Will and Robert looked on in awe. "We're happy to have you fine people coming up our way, Mr. Peterson. I admire the Mormon people. We know you'll build a fine community." "You have a fine family, Mrs. Peterson," he continued, turning to Mama. "And this one surely has a spirit about her," he smiled at Nettie and patted her shoulder. "Thank you, Colonel. We appreciate your tolerance of Nettie's forward ways." "Her courage will stand her in good stead, no doubt," the Colonel answered, and saying goodbye he kissed Nettie on the cheek and strode back to the other wagons. Nettie relived the moment for days later. It was handy to daydream about the Colonel and his exciting life as the days in the wagon began to pass in much the same routine. The weather moderated some and there was even a night or two when Nettie and Clarence slept on the ground under the wagon. In the morning, Mania came to wake them. "Now Nettie, lay real still," Mama said. And grabbing a corner of the blanket she jerked it off quickly to check for snakes. There was an abundance of the slithery creatures in this country and occasionally one of the company would wake to find a snake as his bed partner. When Company Two had been out a little over a week, they made camp one night at a place called Dry Sandy. And it was here that William Dickson caught up with his family. He rode in just before evening camp- |
